Model History

Flush with success from its Galant VR-4 and hungry for WRC victory, Mitsubishi determined in 1990 that further success would require a new platform. To that end, Mitsubishi engineers started with VR-4’s proven drivetrain and shoehorned it into the lighter, smaller Lancer chassis.

The Evolution I was introduced in 1992 to compete in the World Rally Championship. It used the 2-litre turbocharged DOHC engine and 4WD drivetrain from the original Galant VR-4 in a Lancer chassis, and was sold in GSR and RS models. The latter was a stripped-down club racing version that lacked power windows, anti-lock brakes, a rear wiper, and had steel wheels to save approximately 70 kg less than the 1238 kg GSR, while the former came with all of the conveniences of a typical street car. It came with Mitsubishi’s 4G63 engine producing 244hp at 6,000 rpm and 228 ft lb at 3,000 rpm, along with all-wheel drive, which would become a trademark on all Evo models.

Mitsubishi’s intention was to improve power output with each Evolution, and the Evo II started the trend. But with speeds on tarmac stages getting higher, reducing lift and improving cooling performance became the priority for the Evo III. A larger rear wing, front airdam with brake cooling vents, and rocker panel extensions were fitted and, of course, power was up again.

The Evo III arrived in January 1995 looking a lot more serious than its predecessor. It sported a new front end (to channel air better to the radiator, intercooler, and brakes), new side skirts and rear corners, and the rear wing had grown drastically to reduce lift. Under the vented aluminium bonnet a new TDO5-16G6-7 Turbo, new exhaust system, and increased compression brought another 10hp rise over the Evo II, although torque output was unaltered aside from a higher final drive ratio. Both GSR and RS versions still used the same five-speed gearbox. Interior tweaks were limited to a new Momo steering wheel and new fabric on the Recaro seats.

Exterior

This handsome little Evo looks great in its original paint scheme of Queens Silver with OZ alloys in white. The panels are nice and straight along both sides and while the body is not 100% blemish-free the car still presents to a great standard overall. The paint retains a glossy finish throughout, the lights are crystal clear, and the decals at the rear look new. Better still, having resided on the salt-free roads of Japan until 2018, this example is lovely and solid underneath with no rust issues. Upon arrival into the UK the car was treated to a bespoke stainless exhaust system with OEM-style dual exhaust tips – a rare sight on any Evo!

Interior

The factory finish continues inside. The cabin is well appointed with fully operational digital climate control AC, electrically adjustable and folding door mirrors, front and rear electric windows, the original cassette radio and of course those high-back Recaro front seats. Free from any unsightly modifications or “upgrades” the interior space remains just as it did leaving the factory. There are no holes in the dash from aftermarket gauges and the seats show almost no wear to the deep bolsters. In the foot wells you’ll still find the original set of Lancer carpet mats with only the driver’s heel pad a little worn.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

Under the bonnet there are no engine mods to be found – even the factory blow-off valve is still fitted. The turbocharged 2-litre 4G63 engine has recently been serviced and had the timing belt replaced. The Evo has now driven a fully documented 75k miles from new. The Japanese maintenance history is all Mitsubishi, and a service at Mitsubishi was carried out upon arrival into the UK about 1,300 miles ago. The timing belt was replaced shortly after.

WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES

The Evo III’s arches are filled perfectly with the factory 15-inch five-spoke OZ alloys. Having never needed refurbishment they all present in their original coat of white with the correct red decals and centre badges. The wheels are shod in a recently fitted matching set of Toyo Proxes 205/60 R15 tyres with less than 500 miles of wear.

History File

With a total of just 7,000 Evo IIIs produced between January 1995 and August 1996, low mileage and original examples such as this rarely come up for sale. This car was first registered in February ’95. The low mileage of just 75k is fully verified by a comprehensive Mitsubishi service record, as detailed in the original document pack (and listed below). A BIMTA Certificate of Mileage Verification also accompanies the car.

Since arriving in the UK the Evo has been treated to a new stainless steel exhaust system, a service at Mitsubishi and a timing belt change. The car is fully UK-registered and the MOT is valid until April 2019. Given its low mileage, provenance and originality this car represents an excellent investment opportunity for the collector or like-minded enthusiast.

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